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bioRxiv · 10.1101/2023.09.06.556617

Agent-based modeling of tumor-immune interactions reveals determinants of final tumor states

Ahmidouch, M.·Tangella, N.·Finley, S. D.
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Abstract

Interactions between tumor and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) influence tumor growth and the tumors response to treatment. Excitingly, this complex landscape of tumor-immune interactions can be studied using computational modeling. Mathematical oncology can provide quantitative insights into the TME, serving as a framework for understanding tumor dynamics. Here, we use an agent-based model to simulate the interactions among cancer cells, macrophages (naive, M1, and M2), and T cells (active CD8+ and inactive) in a 2D representation of the TME. Key diffusible factors, IL-4 and IFN-{gamma}, are also incorporated. We apply the model to predict how cell-specific properties influence tumor progression. The model predictions and analyses revealed the relationships between different cell populations and highlighted the importance of macrophages and T cells in shaping the TME. Thus, we quantify how components of the TME influence the final tumor state and the effects of macrophage-based therapies. The findings emphasize the significant role of computational models in unraveling the intricate dynamics of tumor-immune interactions and their potential for guiding the development of tailored immunotherapeutic strategies. This study provides a foundation for future investigations aiming to refine and expand the model, validate predictions experimentally, and pave the way for improved cancer treatments.

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Ahmidouch, M., Tangella, N., Finley, S. D.. 2023-09-07. Agent-based modeling of tumor-immune interactions reveals determinants of final tumor states. https://doi.org/10.1101/2023.09.06.556617

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